Classic Christmas Specials 2014

Every year, right after the Halloween decorations are packed away, the anticipation for that most wonderful time of year is palpable. Since the dawn of television, Christmas specials have been a part of the many holiday traditions that make this time of year so special.

There are some classics that can't be missed. They provide joy year after year and make even those feeling a bit like a Scrooge--smile, laugh and even cry.

Here are some of the seasonal favorites that can't be missed along with a review of some of the best Christmas movies and TV specials of all time.

The list of classic 2014 Christmas specials is not out for the season yet. Check back for updates as the TV listings become available.

Here is a look back at the specials that were on this past Christmas and their stations and air times.

The 2013 season will bring many of our old favorites to the small screen along with some new ones to add to the bunch.

While I don't cover all the Christmas specials, there are those that have stood the test of time. Others are so moving and beautiful that they become classics almost overnight.

The list below contains some of the best Christmas movies and specials of all time. You can easily sort by column, date, or even network. So plan an evening in, turn on the TV while you're wrapping or play one in the background during your holiday party.

There are many great Christmas movies and more get made every year. Hallmark Channel and ABC often create new, made-for-TV movies that are heartwarming and beautiful.

But there are those movies that have stood the test of time and have become so much a part of our holidays that we wouldn't consider not adding them to our long to-do list during this busy time of year.

Here are what I consider the absolute essentials that everyone should watch, cherish and remember.

It's sappy and cheesy and over-the-top with it's glass half-full message of hope, love and the importance of family---and we love it. If your heart doesn't hurt as George Bailey runs through the empty streets of "Pottersville" searching for his wife or delight in the simplicity of Clarence, George's guardian angel, then maybe you should consider just hiding under your covers until the new year.

This movie's simple message--that we all matter to someone--is still just as true today as it was almost 70 years ago. There's magic and love fighting greed and hate. And as the town rallies around George during his time of need, everyone learns that if we all work together, then endurance and unity will win over greed and riches.

This movie's breathtaking color, beautiful scenes and memorable songs make it a must-see during the holiday season. No Christmas season is complete without hearing Bing Crosby's sonorous voice caress the words to "White Christmas."

Although the song was originally in the movie "Holiday Inn," another great classic, it is in the movie with its namesake that many of today's audiences first became familiar with it. Other great songs such as "Count Your Blessings" and "Sisters" will stick in your head long after the movie has finished.

While the plot may be a little uneven at times, the talented foursome of Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye, Vera Ellen and Rosemary Clooney, bring it all together to it's beautiful and memorable conclusion.

How can your heart not grow at least a couple of sizes when watching the screen adaptation of Dr. Seuss's much loved "How the Grinch Stole Christmas." In less than 30 minutes, this Christmas special manages to tell a story about love and redemption and forgiveness better than some films attempt to do in several hours.

As the Grinch realizes that he can steal everything but the Who's happiness, we also absorb the message of happiness--that it comes from within. If we are secure in our selves it can't be bought, sold or stolen.

While books to film often leave out some of the magic, this holiday classic manages to capture the essence of the book and gives us some beautiful songs as well. It's definitely a special the whole family will enjoy.

While this movie has been remade, I'm still fond of the Maureen O'Hara and Natalie Wood version of the film. The busy, no-nonsense mother and the child who had to grow up too quickly are all themes that are still related to today in our modern world. The message of stopping, letting go, loving and believing in magic are all a part of the themes of the holiday season.

As both the mother and daughter rediscover each other, their own lost innocence, time stands still for a moment.

The slow realizations that the idea of Santa, his magic and his love doesn't have to be shed once we are grown brings the movie to a triumphant end and lets us all know that this is the time of year when it is okay to return to that innocence and just be a kid again.

While it's a little newer than the rest of the movies I consider to be absolute musts, A Christmas Story has definitely become a part of many families' holiday viewing. In this gem of a film we see bullies, family dynamics being tested, laughter, fights, tears and love.

This movie peels back the layers of family life and shows the ups and downs of growing up and trying to figure it all out. And in the end, making the best of a bad situation is really what it is all about.

While its humor is irreverent and over the top in places, it still manages to portray a heart-warming message about growing up, about being a kid at Christmas and about having family to love and support you along the way.

It's the perfect movie.

There are so many great holiday traditions this time of year. From baking, to shopping, to parties, we are often busy and exhausted as Christmas gets closer. This gives you the perfect excuse to curl up on the sofa with a warm blanket and relax as you watch some of the best Christmas movies of all time.

While many of these films could be enjoyed throughout the year, there is just something about watching them during the holidays. We all need their feel-good messages of hope and love. That's really what it's all about.